Case Studies

Project Overview

When the owners of a beautiful 1700s Georgian cottage in Bedford set out to renovate their family home, they wanted a flooring solution that would complement the property’s historic character while offering the durability and practicality required for modern family life.

The project involved the installation of 40m² of Amtico Form Basketweave in Rural Oak throughout key areas of the home. While the finished floor delivers a timeless, elegant appearance, achieving the perfect result required extensive subfloor preparation and careful planning due to the age and construction of the property.

The Challenge

Period properties often present unique flooring challenges, and this Georgian cottage was no exception.

Across the installation area, three different subfloor types were encountered, including an asphalt and bitumen slab. Years of alterations and repairs had left varying floor heights and substrate conditions, creating a complex foundation for a high-end LVT installation.

To ensure a long-lasting finish, each subfloor required a tailored preparation strategy. The asphalt areas also exhibited surface laitance, which needed to be mechanically removed before any further work could commence.

As with any luxury vinyl tile installation, the quality of the finished floor would depend heavily on the quality of the preparation beneath it.

The Solution

A complete F. Ball subfloor preparation system was specified and installed to create a stable, smooth, and reliable base for the Amtico flooring.

The asphalt substrate was mechanically ground to remove surface laitance and provide a suitable key for subsequent treatments. Moisture management was a key consideration throughout the project, so F. Ball F78 moisture barrier primer was incorporated into the preparation process.

To achieve the required levels and ensure consistency across the varying substrates, multiple applications of self-smoothing compound were installed. In some areas, up to three coats were required, with the F78 primer sandwiched between applications as part of the overall system design.

The extent of the levelling work was significant, with some sections requiring a total build-up of approximately 60mm to create a seamless transition between areas.

Installation

Once the subfloors had been fully prepared and cured, the Amtico Form Basketweave in Rural Oak was installed.

The basketweave pattern was chosen to enhance the cottage’s traditional aesthetic, offering a classic design that feels entirely at home within the Georgian setting. Careful planning and precise installation ensured the pattern flowed naturally throughout the space while maintaining symmetry and visual balance.

The entire project was completed over five days, including all preparation work and final installation.

The Result

The completed floor successfully blends heritage-inspired design with modern performance. The warmth and character of the Rural Oak finish complement the property’s original features, while the basketweave layout adds depth and visual interest throughout the home.

Behind the finished appearance lies a comprehensive subfloor preparation system designed to maximise longevity and performance, ensuring the floor will continue to look its best for years to come.

Most importantly, the homeowners—a young family looking to create a practical yet beautiful living environment—were delighted with the transformation. Their detailed testimonial on our Google Business profile highlights both the quality of the workmanship and the care taken throughout the project.

Key Project Details

• Location: Bedford, Milton Keynes
• Property Type: 1700s Georgian Cottage
• Flooring Installed: Amtico Form Basketweave – Rural Oak
• Area Covered: 40m²
• Duration: 5 Days
• Subfloor Types: Three variants including asphalt and bitumen slab
• Preparation System: Full F. Ball specification including F78 moisture barrier primer
• Levelling Work: Up to three self-smoothing compound applications, totalling approximately 60mm in some areas

This project demonstrates the importance of expert subfloor preparation when working within historic properties. By combining specialist preparation techniques with a premium LVT product, we were able to deliver a floor that respects the character of a period home while meeting the demands of modern family living.